A sensitive, funny, yet deeply thoughtful exploration of difficult feelings.
A mole struggles with social anxiety.
“Should I actually go this time?” asks shy Mole upon receiving an invitation to Rabbit’s Moon Harvest Party. Mole tries different tactics in an attempt to feel brave: envisioning a positive outcome, preparing a sweet treat to delight the other guests, and even bargaining. Still, Mole is consumed with doubt, and the little creature travels to the party through a series of underground tunnels that become increasingly twisty and complex—a lovely visual touch that reflects Mole’s own emotions. Once aboveground, Mole finds a kindred spirit in Skunk, who’s also ambivalent about attending the soiree. When Rabbit lets the two of them in, they both decide not to enter. Rabbit lets the pair know they are loved and appreciated no matter what, and Mole and Skunk find themselves having a good time on their own. After all, a party for two is still a party. Soft, muted artwork depicts an utterly cozy and enchanting world. The illustrations are filled with a trove of delightful details, from the books in Mole’s chambers to hidden gems in the dirt surrounding the tunnels. Mole’s self-talk (“I never know what to say…” “It’s always so awkward”) is endearing and all too relatable. Ultimately, Tatsukawa brings this tale to a satisfying conclusion that lets young introverts know that they can have fun on their own terms. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
A sensitive, funny, yet deeply thoughtful exploration of difficult feelings. (Picture book. 3-8)Pub Date: Oct. 3, 2023
ISBN: 9781250869647
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Henry Holt
Review Posted Online: July 26, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2023
PERSPECTIVES
Familiarity breeds a birthday for the ages in this party worth attending.
Don’t let the Pigeon ruin his own special day!
Anyone who has ever encountered the title character in any of his books—whether his first, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (2003), or one of its many sequels—will understand that the bird’s innate self-love drives his every interaction. Little wonder, then, that he’s thrilled about his own “bird-day.” He has the hat. He has his “FANCY PLUMAGE.” And, best of all, he will get to blow out a candle “on my bird-day hot dog!” As he revels in the knowledge that this day is all for him, comeuppance is lurking. Someone has already blown out the bird-day candle—and eaten half the hot dog. It turns out that the Pigeon’s frenemy, the Duckling, has the same bird-day—as do a slew of newly hatched chicks. The Pigeon’s obligatory eight-panel freakout ensues. “What am I—invisible? I just want to be seen,” he whimpers, and when he receives some much-needed reassurance, he settles down and willingly shares his special day. While the switch from unapologetic narcissism to mature acceptance happens in the record-breaking span of two pages, the book is as enchanting as the Pigeon’s earlier outings. Even as it walks in the footsteps of its predecessors, there’s no denying the fun to be had.
Familiarity breeds a birthday for the ages in this party worth attending. (Picture book. 3-6)Pub Date: March 31, 2026
ISBN: 9781454999621
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Union Square Kids
Review Posted Online: Nov. 22, 2025
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 1, 2026
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
New parents of daughters will eat these up and perhaps pass on the lessons learned.
All the reasons why a daughter needs a mother.
Each spread features an adorable cartoon animal parent-child pair on the recto opposite a rhyming verse: “I’ll always support you in giving your all / in every endeavor, the big and the small, / and be there to catch you in case you should fall. / I hope you believe this is true.” A virtually identical book, Why a Daughter Needs a Dad, publishes simultaneously. Both address standing up for yourself and your values, laughing to ease troubles, being thankful, valuing friendship, persevering and dreaming big, being truthful, thinking through decisions, and being open to differences, among other topics. Though the sentiments/life lessons here and in the companion title are heartfelt and important, there are much better ways to deliver them. These books are likely to go right over children’s heads and developmental levels (especially with the rather advanced vocabulary); their parents are the more likely audience, and for them, the books provide some coaching in what kids need to hear. The two books are largely interchangeable, especially since there are so few references to mom or dad, but one spread in each book reverts to stereotype: Dad balances the two-wheeler, and mom helps with clothing and hair styles. Since the books are separate, it aids in customization for many families.
New parents of daughters will eat these up and perhaps pass on the lessons learned. (Picture book. 4-8, adult)Pub Date: May 1, 2019
ISBN: 978-1-4926-6781-0
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Review Posted Online: March 16, 2019
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 2019
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